Short Answer Questions

1. In the process to produce acetone from isopropyl alcohol (see process description on the CD), heat is supplied to the endothermic reaction using a Dowtherm A (or molten salt) loop and a fired heater. During the start-up of a new plant, it is found that the activity of the catalyst (k_o in the kinetics expression) is less than designed. How would you adjust the flow of heat transfer fluid (up or down) to compensate for this error? Explain your reasoning.

2. In a distillation column, if the bottom pressure decreases, what is the effect on the bottom temperature, the top pressure, the top temperature, and the flooding situation? Assume that all flows, temperatures, and pressures for the utility streams remain constant.